Modular Distribution Block Din Rail Release Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electrical power distribution blocks lack modular flexibility and ease of assembly, making it difficult to change configurations and connect different sizes and types of conductors efficiently.

Innovation Solution

The design includes a base with modular features such as lid mounting features, block mounting features, and support connecting features that allow for the interchangeable connection of various lids, conductor blocks, and bases, enabling flexible configurations and easy assembly.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If distribution blocks use fixed, non-modular designs, then manufacturing and assembly are simpler, but flexibility and adaptability to different configurations are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveflexibilityVSAvoidcomplexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The distribution block is divided into separate modular components: a base, a conductor block, and a lid. These components can be independently manufactured and then assembled together, allowing different combinations and configurations while maintaining manufacturing efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The base and conductor block are designed with standardized interfaces and mounting features that allow them to work together in multiple configurations. The modular design enables the same components to serve different distribution needs by varying the arrangement and combination of parts.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If distribution blocks use standardized modular interfaces, then interchangeability and configuration flexibility improve, but manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveinterchangeabilityVSAvoidprecision
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The base and conductor block are designed to be assembled together using standardized interfaces with features like recesses and protrusions. This merging approach allows for interchangeable components while maintaining functional alignment through the integrated design of the mating surfaces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The modular interfaces incorporate specific localized features such as recesses, protrusions, and mounting holes at critical locations. These localized quality enhancements ensure proper alignment and connection without requiring high precision across the entire component surfaces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Ease of operation

If distribution blocks are designed as single integrated units, then structural strength is higher, but ease of assembly and disassembly is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of assemblyVSAvoidstrength
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The distribution block is segmented into a base, conductor block, and lid that can be easily assembled and disassembled. The modular design incorporates features like recesses and mounting interfaces that facilitate simple connection while maintaining structural integrity through proper mechanical bonding of the components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

4Adaptability or versatility

If distribution blocks use multiple separate components, then modular flexibility and adaptability improve, but device complexity and assembly steps increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodular flexibilityVSAvoidnumber of components
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The distribution block is divided into three main modular components: a base, a conductor block, and a lid. This segmentation provides flexibility and adaptability while limiting the number of components to a manageable level for assembly and maintenance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The base and conductor block are designed to be assembled together using standardized interfaces, merging two functional elements into a unified assembly that maintains structural integrity while preserving modular flexibility for different configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS10348006B2Distribution block and din rail release mechanism
Publication Date: 2019.07.09 HUBBELL INC
  • US10348006B2 patent drawing
  • US10348006B2 patent drawing
  • US10348006B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An electrical distribution block transfer electrical power from a primary conductor to one or more tap conductors. The distribution block includes a base, a conductor block, first and second sidewalls, and a lid. The conductor block and the first and second sidewalls are connected to the base and the lid is connected to the first and second sidewalls. The conductor block includes one or more apertures for receiving more primary conductors and one or more apertures for receiving tap conductors.